FRESNO - Southeast District Officers Keosoy Saechao and Chadwick Chang from the Fresno Police Department where conducting proactive patrol in the area of Cedar Avenue and Hedges Avenue. This was due to the uptick in the recent violent crime that has been taking place in the city.

A traffic stop was made for an equipment violation on a vehicle where 18 year old Ricky Rodriguez from Fresno was the passenger. During the stop the driver allowed officers to conduct a search of the vehicle, where a loaded 9mm Glock 19 semi auto handgun was recovered. Rodriguez is an associate of the “RTL” Ruthless Thug Life Gang which is a sub set to the East Side Fresno Bulldog Gang.

During the investigation it was found that Rodriguez had the handgun in his waistband and had placed it inside a backpack while the car was being pulled over. Rodriguez further stated that he has no problem shooting a cop, but recognized Officers Saechao and Vang of being respectful to his friends when they are contacted by them. Rodriguez reason for carrying the handgun was for self-protection.

Rodriguez was arrested and booked into the Fresno County Jail on numerous weapons charges without any further incident. Please see the attached photograph of the recovered firearm and suspect Rodriguez.

The Fresno Police Department would like to remind the public that Crime Stoppers has enhanced the rewards for information related to gang members who are involved in narcotic sales, firearm possession, and human trafficking. The new campaign consists of the following monetary rewards for anonymous tips. If a gang member is arrested for possessing a handgun, the reward is $2,000. If a gang member is arrested for possessing an assault rifle, the reward is $3,000. If a gang member is arrested for human trafficking, the reward is $3,000 and if a gang member is involved in drug sales, the reward is $1,000. Anyone with information is urged to call crime stoppers at (559)-498-STOP (7869) with information. Your information is kept confidential.